English entry test for maids to be scrapped

In a move that would not only alleviate the stress faced by foreign domestic workers (FDWs) seeking a living here - but also ease the supply crunch hitting the industry - the English entry test for FDWs will be scrapped.

From the middle of next year, the mandatory test will be replaced by a Settling-In Programme (SIP), Minister of State (Manpower) Tan Chuan-Jin announced yesterday.

Among other things, the SIP will include modules on adapting to life and work here, including stress management, as well as the responsibilities of domestic workers.

It will not train the FDWs on language skills, which can be picked up over time, or domestic skills such as cleaning or cooking, which tend to vary according to the needs of individual households. Further details for the SIP, such as its duration, are being worked out.

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